As in previous years, the 2013 Competition attracted interest from around the world, truly deserving its ‘International’ title. There were ninety-two entries by sixty-six binders from the following sixteen countries: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and the USA. It was pleasing to see that eight of the entrants were newcomers to bookbinding, one of whom was awarded the prize for the Best Book Submitted by a Newcomer. This is very encouraging and hopefully the numbers of newcomers will increase with each competition.
The 2013 judges were: David Pearson (Director of Culture, Heritage & Libraries, City of London Corporation, and bookbinding historian), Tracey Rowledge (bookbinder, teacher and founder member of Tomorrow’s Past and 60|40) and Julian Thomas (Fellow and former President of Designer Bookbinders). The books were anonymously judged and sixteen prizes were awarded across the five categories. The organisers would like to thank the judges for all the time, care, and attention they took over the judging process.
The entries were exhibited for the duration of the Society of Bookbinders Conference in Leeds, the winners being announced at the Conference dinner. All the prize-winning bindings subsequently formed a travelling exhibition.
The organisers would like to thank all those who submitted work, everyone who has helped with the Competition, and this year’s generous sponsors.
Competition Catalogue
All books submitted are included in our online catalogue which can be viewed here.
Hard copies are also available through this link if you would like to purchase one.
Travelling Exhibition Venues
The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery
University of Leeds
7th September to 12th October 2013
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George Bayntun, Bath
16th October to 16th November 2013
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Shepherds Bookbinders
London
19th November 2013 to 4th January 2014
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